The Apostle's uncle, Abbas ibn Abdul Muttalib, was with him on this occasion.

The Apostle's uncle, Abbas ibn Abdul Muttalib, was with him on this occasion. He is reported to have said to the “hosts” from Yathrib: “Muhammad is held in high esteem by his own people. If you can stand by him through thick and thin, take him with you to Yathrib; if not, then abandon the whole idea.” One of the leaders of the Yathribites was Bera'a ibn Ma'roor.

He said: “When we were children, our favorite toys were swords and spears.” Another chief, Abul Haithum, interrupted him, and said: “O Messenger of God! What will happen when Islam becomes great and strong? Will you then leave Yathrib and return to Makkah?” Muhammad Mustafa smiled and said: “No. Your blood is my blood and my blood is your blood.

From this day you are mine and I am yours, and I shall never part company with you.” The Yathribite Muslims were satisfied by the assurance given to them by Muhammad Mustafa, and they returned to Yathrib to spread Islam among their folks. Islam began to make steady progress in Yathrib. When it appeared that the new faith had found a haven in that city, the Apostle suggested to the victims of persecution in Makkah to emigrate there.

Following his suggestion, Muslims began to leave Makkah, in small groups, and to settle in their new homes in Yathrib. The Second Pledge of Aqaba is a landmark in the history of Islam. It was the “anchor” on which the frail vessel of Islam came to rest at last, after being buffeted for thirteen years in the turbulent seas of paganism in Arabia. Previous…